The Crosses Break from the Shadow of Die Kreuzen

Debut EP, Outlier, out April 17

February 25, 2026February 25, 2026 Ron Hart 0 Comments 2026, Daniel Kubinski, Die Kreuzen, Husker Du, Outlier, Rushmor Records, Spectragram Records, The Crosses, Touch and Go Records, Triple Eye Industries

The Crosses (Image: Triple Eye Industries)

The original impetus behind Daniel Kubinski forming The Crosses was as an outlet for playing the music of his old band Die Kreuzen.

It was over 45 years ago in 1981 that Die Kreuzen emerged from Rockford, Illinois, with their distinctive blend of hardcore, goth and alternative rock. Signed to Touch & Go Records, they released four albums that are very much worth seeking out (especially The October File, which turns 40 this year).

But in the meantime, sink your teeth into the feral fury of Kubinski’s new crew, rounded out by guitarist Jim Potter (Dr. Shrinker), bassist Christopher Ortiz (Magnetic Minds / Speed Freaks), and drummer Jesse Sieren (Big Laugh / Revelation Records).

The band’s debut EP, Outlier, is scheduled for release on April 17 via Triple Eye Industries, Spectragram Records and Rushmor Records. And an early listen to this six-song set, comprised of four originals, a reworked Kreuzen gem (“Man of the Trees”) and a Hüsker Dü cover (“I’ll Never Forget You” from Zen Arcade), Daniel has not lost his edge an ounce.

“The Outlier record is by far my personal best work as both a lyricist and vocalist,” Kubinski tells Rock & Roll Globe. “No constraints on style or delivery. No limitations on the subject matter just simply what comes from the heart and as interpreted through my vocal cords. No need to be self-conscious or reserved. Self is freedom and very important to me these days. Writing about current events seems just as important to me as does writing about inner struggles and hardships that are on a more personal level. You’ll find both on Outlier.

The Crosses *Outlier* EP, Triple Eye Industries/Spectagram Records 2026

“The current and best line up of The Crosses has arrived and I can truly say, without a doubt, this is the most killer band I have ever been a part of, period. The musicianship is stellar! The guys blow my mind continuously on what great musicians they are and how they completely and absolutely own their instruments. What Jim Potter, guitars (Dr. Shrinker), Jesse Sieren, Drums (Big Laugh) and Joe Sanfellipo, Bass have created on Outlier is nothing short of masterful. Terror, purity, beauty, black thunder storms and blinding sunshine are intertwined and wrapped in their or our unique version of Rock, Punk and Metal. Of course the guys in the band are some of thee coolest and nicest guys to ever hangout with and in the end, if it isn’t fun then why do it? So we rock it and have a blast doing it! More music is being written, more fun is being had, stay tuned!”

After spending a decade as stewards of the Die Kreuzen legacy, Outlier finds The Crosses forging their own path that gives them an identity beyond their roots.

Tracklist:

1. Nails

2. Hate Market

3. Nychthemeron

4. Natronium

5. Man In The Trees

6. I’ll Never Forget You